Beachwood’s volleyball team continues to show progress under first-year head coach Sarah Schoenhagen.
The Bison took another big step on Tuesday when they defeated Kirtland, 3-1. The Hornets earlier this season won the first matchup of the two teams, 3-2.
“The first time, I think the girls were a little nervous,” Schoenhagen said. “It was our first home game. This time I think they were a little more relaxed and just mentally they were able to finish it.”
The Bison won the first set, 25-17, and then Kirtland tied the match with a 25-17 win in the second set.
“The second game all season long has been kind of rough for us,” Schoenhagen said. “We weren’t passing well or serve receiving well so they were able to get us that game.”
The Bison, who improved to 14-4 overall, rolled to 25-20 and 25-22 wins to finish off the Hornets.
Each win adds to Beachwood’s school record for wins in a single a season. The Bison previously had never reached 10 wins in a single year.
“Coming in, that was about our expectation,” Schoenhagen said. “We told them if they played well and really believed in their potential they could have a great season. We thought we should at least go .500 this season, so we over exceeded the goal we had.”
Valisha Watkins, Jada Stevens, Shaneice James and Cameron Leathers-Clayborne were among Beachwood’s leaders at Kirtland.
Watkins posted nine kills, seven digs and four aces. Stevens had seven kills and 10 digs and James had six kills and 13 digs. Leathers-Clayborne recorded 23 assists.
Beachwood’s team approach is a strength heading into the post-season.
“Individually, we have great individuals but we told them at the beginning of the year that at the end of the day it’s how they can put it all together,” Schoenhagen said. “I feel that’s one of our strengths going into the tournament. We don’t just have that one go-to player. We have the complete package.”
The Bison play at Richmond Heights today and close out the regular season with a Senior Night game against Independence on Thursday.
